Back from the Wayoutback!

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G’Day family and friends of the Carpe Hongi group!

We just arrived back in Alice Springs from an exhausting, yet liberating week in the Australian outback. This week has pushed us in ways we didn’t even know we could be pushed, both emotionally and physically. From a 25 hour train ride all the way to swimming in between million year old rocks.
Our bodies were tired, dripping with sweat and excitement as we discovered the overwhelming beauty of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. We learned about the two rocks’ Aboriginal histories as well as their geological backgrounds, giving us all a better idea of these massive wonders. Our tour guide, Adam, or Adz, was an incredible addition, being both an amazing information source to a hilarious companion.

Hiking was a huge part of this week which felt much needed. As daunting as the hikes seemed, we all stuck it out together, and they were all very worth it. Our hikes stretched from learning about the Conglomerate and Clastic Sedimentary Sandstone at Kings Canyon to stories told in the sand by Adz (Aboriginal style). But there was so much more. Waking up at 4 a.m. every morning to the sound of a Didgeridoo, incredible meals, dead Wallabies in perfect Ballerina form and finally passing out under the stars in our swags.

Life didn’t seem real this week, yet it was as real and awakening as ever. All of these experiences collectively making everyone of us a much stronger and empowered person. Yes, we pushed our minds and bodies in ways we never expected, but we now know just how far we can go, and how much further we can reach. We love it here.